PRESSURE was mounting on David Cameron last night amid fresh calls from Tory MPs urging him to hold an EU referendum before the next election.

Leading Right-wing Conservatives want the Prime Minister to bring forward the date for an in/out vote on Europe to show his commitment to the issue.

Details of a plot to push for a sooner than expected EU referendum were discussed at a private dinner last week.

Justice Secretary Chris Grayling, former shadow home secretary David Davis, former Defence Secretary Liam Fox and John Redwood, the former Cabinet minister, all attended the gathering. Bernard Jenkin, the chairman of the Public Administration Committee was also there.

It is understood they also discussed the prospects of an early end to the Coalition and even a possible challenge to Mr Cameron's leadership.

Mr Cameron has come under intense pressure since last week's Eastleigh byelection where the Tories came third behind Ukip.

He has insisted his party won't "lurch to the Right" while several minister's have thrust to the fore as potential replacements for him.

Mr Cameron has come under intense pressure since last week's Eastleigh by-election

Downing Street officials yesterday dismissed speculation that Theresa May is emerging as a potential successor to Mr Cameron.

Some Tories are suggesting the Home Secretary could be the best placed candidate to be their party's next leader if the Prime Minister fails to win a majority at the next general election.

The issue was raised by Ed Miliband at Prime Minister's Questions yesterday.

Accusing Mr Cameron of asking rather than answering questions, the Labour leader said: "I notice that the Prime Minister has a new tactic, which is to ask me questions during our exchanges.

"All I can say is that it is good to see him preparing for opposition. The Home Secretary shakes her head. I am looking forward to facing her when they are in opposition."